Chinese Lantern
Physalis alkekengi
Family: Solanaceae · Also called Bladder Cherry, Japanese Lantern, Winter Cherry, Physalis hyemalis, Boberella alkekengi, Physalis alkekengi
Green & Fresh · Autumn bloomer
Chinese lanterns are autumn's most theatrical plant, the ornamental 'lanterns' are inflated papery husks (calyces) that change from green to brilliant orange-red as they mature, each one containing a single cherry-like fruit. They look like tiny paper lanterns strung along the stem and are among the most popular dried flowers for autumn arrangements.
deception, honesty, protection
In the Victorian language of flowers, chinese lantern means “Deception concealing honesty within”. Used in Japanese Obon festivals, the papery lanterns represent guiding lights for ancestral spirits. In Chinese traditional medicine, the fruit treats fever and inflammation. Victorian flower arrangers prized the dried lanterns for winter bouquets. Despite looking ornamental, the fruit inside is edible (the closely related cape gooseberry is a culinary delicacy).
Did You Know?
The husks are waterproof, rain runs off them, protecting the fruit inside. Left in the garden over winter, the orange paper gradually decomposes into a lace-like skeleton revealing the bright red berry inside, these 'skeleton lanterns' are prized by flower arrangers. The plant spreads aggressively by underground runners and can become invasive.
Woodland margins, waste ground, and warm, sheltered positions
Chinese Lantern is native to Southern Europe, Western Asia. It naturally grows in woodland margins, waste ground, and warm, sheltered positions.
Scent Profile
“Virtually unscented in flower, the papery orange husks that are the main attraction have a faint, dry, papery smell. Crush the leaves and you'll detect a tomato-plant-like green scent (they're related).”
Quick Reference
- Scientific NamePhysalis alkekengi
- FamilySolanaceae
- Native ToSouthern Europe, Western Asia
- Bloom SeasonAutumn
- LifespanPerennial
Cultural Significance
Used in Japanese Obon festivals, the papery lanterns represent guiding lights for ancestral spirits. In Chinese traditional medicine, the fruit treats fever and inflammation. Victorian flower arrangers prized the dried lanterns for winter bouquets. Despite looking ornamental, the fruit inside is edible (the closely related cape gooseberry is a culinary delicacy).